NC High Country Guidebook
Our Favorite Activities
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery is the High Country's first wine producing vineyard, and all of their wines are made on site. Grandfather Vineyard & Winery has been featured in Our State magazine in 2020.
Enjoy a glass of wine, from dry whites and reds, to sweet wines, to bubbles, by the Watauga River! On weekends in May thru September, they host Live Music with their Music in the Vineyard Series. They also are the exclusive home of the Eleven80 Food Truck, which runs Fri-Sun May-September. Open Mon-Sat 12-6pm and Sun 1-5pm.
245 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
225 Vineyard LaneGrandfather Vineyard & Winery is the High Country's first wine producing vineyard, and all of their wines are made on site. Grandfather Vineyard & Winery has been featured in Our State magazine in 2020.
Enjoy a glass of wine, from dry whites and reds, to sweet wines, to bubbles, by the Watauga River! On weekends in May thru September, they host Live Music with their Music in the Vineyard Series. They also are the exclusive home of the Eleven80 Food Truck, which runs Fri-Sun May-September. Open Mon-Sat 12-6pm and Sun 1-5pm.
3 trout ponds are stocked to the brim with Rainbow Trout. No license needed and you only pay for what you catch. They supply rod and reels, bait and towels, ice and bags. Something for the whole family! Open Year Round and no reservations required.
26 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Grandfather Trout Ponds
10767 NC-1053 trout ponds are stocked to the brim with Rainbow Trout. No license needed and you only pay for what you catch. They supply rod and reels, bait and towels, ice and bags. Something for the whole family! Open Year Round and no reservations required.
Here at the Greater Foscoe Mining Company, your experience is not only loads of fun, but educational as well. With indoor and outdoor flumes, your visit will be enjoyable rain or shine. When you’ve finished mining, their friendly staff will identify your gemstones and place them on a keepsake gemstone calendar to take with you. If you’re interested in having any of your stones cut, you can visit the jewelry store and gallery. Facets, where their experienced gem cutters can cut and polish your stones.
26 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Greater Foscoe Mining Co
8998 NC-105Here at the Greater Foscoe Mining Company, your experience is not only loads of fun, but educational as well. With indoor and outdoor flumes, your visit will be enjoyable rain or shine. When you’ve finished mining, their friendly staff will identify your gemstones and place them on a keepsake gemstone calendar to take with you. If you’re interested in having any of your stones cut, you can visit the jewelry store and gallery. Facets, where their experienced gem cutters can cut and polish your stones.
Hawksnest Tubing is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast, with over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1000 feet long!
Hawksnest Zipline offers 2 full tour options, stretching over 4 miles worth of ziplining fun, featuring 20 ziplines in total. Both tour options include their own MEGA ZIPS – ziplines over 1500 feet long!
Enjoy heights of over 200 feet and speeds up to 40 mph while ziplining over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. All while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
238 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Hawksnest Snow Tubing y Zipline
2058 Skyland DrHawksnest Tubing is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast, with over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1000 feet long!
Hawksnest Zipline offers 2 full tour options, stretching over 4 miles worth of ziplining fun, featuring 20 ziplines in total. Both tour options include their own MEGA ZIPS – ziplines over 1500 feet long!
Enjoy heights of over 200 feet and speeds up to 40 mph while ziplining over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. All while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
With over 35 years of experience in guiding adventurous travelers to some of the world's most spectacular places, High Mountain Expeditions has crafted what they consider to be one of the best adventures in the world. They’re are experts in Nolichucky River Rafting, Watauga River Rafting, Wilson Creek Rafting, New River Tubing, Hiking and Caving. High Mountain Expeditions is dedicated to creating your perfect North Carolina adventure.
52 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
High Mountain Expeditions
1380 NC-105With over 35 years of experience in guiding adventurous travelers to some of the world's most spectacular places, High Mountain Expeditions has crafted what they consider to be one of the best adventures in the world. They’re are experts in Nolichucky River Rafting, Watauga River Rafting, Wilson Creek Rafting, New River Tubing, Hiking and Caving. High Mountain Expeditions is dedicated to creating your perfect North Carolina adventure.
Skiing, tubing, ice skating snowshoeing, mountain biking & dining
199 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sugar Mountain
Skiing, tubing, ice skating snowshoeing, mountain biking & dining
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is North Carolina’s first alpine roller coaster, providing thrilling outdoor adventure in Banner Elk.
Wilderness Run is built by Germany’s top alpine coaster company and modeled after popular coasters in Europe. The track’s length of 3,160 feet includes three circular loops, a series of waves and several twists and turns for plenty of excitement.
Guests navigate the track in individual carts that are designed to accommodate up to two people.
Each ride begins with a cable-pulled ascent of 770 feet to the top. At that point, the alpine coaster differs from a roller coaster because the remainder of the ride is gravity-fed with the rider grasping two handles that serve as brakes. Riders can use as little or as much braking as they like.
The top speed is 27 miles per hour, and the average ride takes about five minutes.
“You’re looping, dipping or turning. There is no point in the five minutes where you are just riding,” says Eric Bechard, who co-owns the coaster with his wife, Tara. “It’s very fast and a whole lot of fun.”
The six-acre attraction is open year-round and includes a clubhouse, observation deck, gift shop and coffee shop.
206 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
3265 Tynecastle HwyWilderness Run Alpine Coaster is North Carolina’s first alpine roller coaster, providing thrilling outdoor adventure in Banner Elk.
Wilderness Run is built by Germany’s top alpine coaster company and modeled after popular coasters in Europe. The track’s length of 3,160 feet includes three circular loops, a series of waves and several twists and turns for plenty of excitement.
Guests navigate the track in individual carts that are designed to accommodate up to two people.
Each ride begins with a cable-pulled ascent of 770 feet to the top. At that point, the alpine coaster differs from a roller coaster because the remainder of the ride is gravity-fed with the rider grasping two handles that serve as brakes. Riders can use as little or as much braking as they like.
The top speed is 27 miles per hour, and the average ride takes about five minutes.
“You’re looping, dipping or turning. There is no point in the five minutes where you are just riding,” says Eric Bechard, who co-owns the coaster with his wife, Tara. “It’s very fast and a whole lot of fun.”
The six-acre attraction is open year-round and includes a clubhouse, observation deck, gift shop and coffee shop.
Set along the mountainside, Sunrise Mountain Mini Golf, surrounded by nature and waterfalls, is a fun time for the whole family. Opens annually in June.
10 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sunrise Mountain Mini Golf
1675 NC-105Set along the mountainside, Sunrise Mountain Mini Golf, surrounded by nature and waterfalls, is a fun time for the whole family. Opens annually in June.
Grandfather Mountain is known for its incredible vistas and unmatched ecological diversity. On a clear day at Grandfather Mountain (elevation 5,946 feet), you can see the Charlotte skyline 90 miles away.
Attractions include the following:
Mile High Swinging Bridge, Wildlife Habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, Hiking, Picnicking, Dining, and Events.
204 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque Estatal de la Montaña del Abuelo
Grandfather Mountain is known for its incredible vistas and unmatched ecological diversity. On a clear day at Grandfather Mountain (elevation 5,946 feet), you can see the Charlotte skyline 90 miles away.
Attractions include the following:
Mile High Swinging Bridge, Wildlife Habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, Hiking, Picnicking, Dining, and Events.
Tanger Outlets Blowing Rock
278 Shoppes on the Parkway Rdskiing, tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, mountain biking, yoga, & disc golf
367 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Beech Mountain Ski Resort
1007 S Beech Mountain Pkwyskiing, tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, mountain biking, yoga, & disc golf
Tweetsie Railroad
300 Tweetsie Railroad LnRailroad Theme Park
Mystery Hill
129 Mystery Hill Lnattractions, adventure, & museum
Appalachian Ski Mtn
940 Ski Mountain Rdskiing, tubing, & ice skating
Rocky Knob
285 Mountain Bike WyMountain Bike Park
Cascadas de Linville - Sendero y Cascada
Nearby towns
Boone is located within the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a most stunning scenic backdrop for visitors and residents alike.
Founded in the 1870s and named for famed frontiersman Daniel Boone, the modern town is now home to a population of just over 19,000.
In this historic locale one can find plenty of great eateries, cafes, shopping outlets, galleries, and live music venues all in a most picturesque environment. In addition a number of green spaces can be enjoyed in town including the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, and the calming Watauga River. Meanwhile a train ride on the Tweetsie Heritage railroad connects to the aforementioned town of Blowing Rock for a most charming and delightful locomotive experience.
285 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Boone
Boone is located within the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a most stunning scenic backdrop for visitors and residents alike.
Founded in the 1870s and named for famed frontiersman Daniel Boone, the modern town is now home to a population of just over 19,000.
In this historic locale one can find plenty of great eateries, cafes, shopping outlets, galleries, and live music venues all in a most picturesque environment. In addition a number of green spaces can be enjoyed in town including the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, and the calming Watauga River. Meanwhile a train ride on the Tweetsie Heritage railroad connects to the aforementioned town of Blowing Rock for a most charming and delightful locomotive experience.
Banner Elk
Restaurants, games. bars, and events.
Just a 30 minute drive from Banner Elk, the town of Blowing Rock is another charming destination situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Near the border with the State of Tennessee, this town of 1,376 residents has several fascinating museums, quaint souvenir shops, local galleries, and an eclectic range of tasty food establishments.
And of course visiting the eponymous Blowing Rock land formation is always a place for great photos, while a visit to the Tweetsie Heritage railroad is a great way to spend an afternoon for visitors of all ages. Hop aboard a vintage locomotive and ride on down to the adjacent amusement park where an assortment of rides and other live entertainment will leave the whole family with a smile.
398 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Blowing Rock
Just a 30 minute drive from Banner Elk, the town of Blowing Rock is another charming destination situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Near the border with the State of Tennessee, this town of 1,376 residents has several fascinating museums, quaint souvenir shops, local galleries, and an eclectic range of tasty food establishments.
And of course visiting the eponymous Blowing Rock land formation is always a place for great photos, while a visit to the Tweetsie Heritage railroad is a great way to spend an afternoon for visitors of all ages. Hop aboard a vintage locomotive and ride on down to the adjacent amusement park where an assortment of rides and other live entertainment will leave the whole family with a smile.
Our Favorite Local Restaurants
Contemporary American Fine Dining in a rustic but elegant environment. Innovative and progressive thinking in a farm to table approach, only working with the highest quality ingredients. This warm environment offers the best food and wine with excellent service. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Private dining room adjacent to the wine cellar available for events. Artisanal Restaurant is closed seasonally from November – April.
85 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Artisanal Restaurant
1200 Dobbins RdContemporary American Fine Dining in a rustic but elegant environment. Innovative and progressive thinking in a farm to table approach, only working with the highest quality ingredients. This warm environment offers the best food and wine with excellent service. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Private dining room adjacent to the wine cellar available for events. Artisanal Restaurant is closed seasonally from November – April.
The Gamekeeper combines the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The restaurant is a favorite destination of both locals and visitors that can make any trip, anniversary or event more special.
The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local ingredients, satisfying both meat and veggie lovers. Farmers and foragers regularly knock on the kitchen door with freshly-picked produce and the evening’s menu reflects those offerings. The staff at the Gamekeeper believes that fine dining can be fun and welcomes guests to a comfortable, satisfying dining experience.
105 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Gamekeeper Restaurant
3005 Shulls Mill RdThe Gamekeeper combines the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The restaurant is a favorite destination of both locals and visitors that can make any trip, anniversary or event more special.
The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local ingredients, satisfying both meat and veggie lovers. Farmers and foragers regularly knock on the kitchen door with freshly-picked produce and the evening’s menu reflects those offerings. The staff at the Gamekeeper believes that fine dining can be fun and welcomes guests to a comfortable, satisfying dining experience.
Stonewalls is an upscale restaurant that serves Prime Rib, Seafood, Gourmet Steaks, Fine Wines and Fine Olive Oils & Balsamics.
146 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Stonewalls Restaurant
344 Shawneehaw Ave SStonewalls is an upscale restaurant that serves Prime Rib, Seafood, Gourmet Steaks, Fine Wines and Fine Olive Oils & Balsamics.
An eclectic menu featuring American, Italian, and Japanese dishes. Featuring fresh farm to table ingredients, award winning chef Nicole Palazzo creates a menu that offers the best of western North Carolina’s heritage and cuisine. Casual yet upscale atmosphere, the restaurant is perfect for a family dinner or a night out with friends.
10 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Chef's Table at Sorrento's
140 Azalea Cir SEAn eclectic menu featuring American, Italian, and Japanese dishes. Featuring fresh farm to table ingredients, award winning chef Nicole Palazzo creates a menu that offers the best of western North Carolina’s heritage and cuisine. Casual yet upscale atmosphere, the restaurant is perfect for a family dinner or a night out with friends.
Casual New American eatery & bar that morphs into a late-night DJ club scene on weekends. A place to enjoy a fresh meal, crafted in-house from local High Country ingredients.
In downtown Boone so you can walk the shops and see the sights.
104 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Local
179 Howard StCasual New American eatery & bar that morphs into a late-night DJ club scene on weekends. A place to enjoy a fresh meal, crafted in-house from local High Country ingredients.
In downtown Boone so you can walk the shops and see the sights.
Sorrento’s Italian Bistro is a family run business and has been serving Italian dishes and pizza since 1983 to locals and travelers.
149 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sorrento's Italian Bistro
140 Azalea Cir SESorrento’s Italian Bistro is a family run business and has been serving Italian dishes and pizza since 1983 to locals and travelers.
Local fare, farm fresh, prepared daily with a passion and love for great food, excellent service and a broad range of spirits, beer and wine. Right on Main St in Blowing Rock so you can walk the shops and see the sights.
55 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop
922 Main StLocal fare, farm fresh, prepared daily with a passion and love for great food, excellent service and a broad range of spirits, beer and wine. Right on Main St in Blowing Rock so you can walk the shops and see the sights.
Moon Thai Sushi Restaurant
7179 Valley BlvdBest local sushi spot.
Authentic, family owned Greek restaurant with traditional Greek dishes.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The High Country Greek
507 Bamboo RdAuthentic, family owned Greek restaurant with traditional Greek dishes.
Upscale Sushi and Japanese food restaurant & full bar with sake & cocktails in sophisticated designer digs.
104 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
CoBo Sushi Bistro & Bar
161 Howard StUpscale Sushi and Japanese food restaurant & full bar with sake & cocktails in sophisticated designer digs.
Wine Store
Wines for quaffing and collecting, cheeses from around the world, gifts and goodies, specialty cocktail additions and accessories, cigars, glassware, custom cheeseboards and gift baskets made to order, and much more
16 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Erick's Cheese & Wine Shop
4004 NC-105Wines for quaffing and collecting, cheeses from around the world, gifts and goodies, specialty cocktail additions and accessories, cigars, glassware, custom cheeseboards and gift baskets made to order, and much more
Established in 1978, one of the State's—oldest and most comprehensive bottle shoppes. In addition to the thousands of wine and beer options in stock, we are glad to order from our vast catalog any item we do not have in stock. We are proud to be an inviting, inclusive, and comfortable place to shop, sample or drink wine and cider, taste beer, grab a bite from one of the food trucks, and socialize with friends.
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Peabody's Wine & Beer Merchants
1104 NC-105Established in 1978, one of the State's—oldest and most comprehensive bottle shoppes. In addition to the thousands of wine and beer options in stock, we are glad to order from our vast catalog any item we do not have in stock. We are proud to be an inviting, inclusive, and comfortable place to shop, sample or drink wine and cider, taste beer, grab a bite from one of the food trucks, and socialize with friends.
Grocery
Headquartered in the Carolinas, Lowes Foods is a local company that has been supporting local farms and businesses for 60 years and counting. Lowes offers a store experience that makes shopping a pleasure, with quality groceries, stellar guest services and deliciously convenient to-go meals.
133 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Lowes Foods of Banner Elk
4000 NC-105Headquartered in the Carolinas, Lowes Foods is a local company that has been supporting local farms and businesses for 60 years and counting. Lowes offers a store experience that makes shopping a pleasure, with quality groceries, stellar guest services and deliciously convenient to-go meals.
The Food Lion Grocery Store of Banner Elk is everything you need in a grocery store. Browse their variety of items and competitive prices today!
126 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Food Lion
3555 Tynecastle HwyThe Food Lion Grocery Store of Banner Elk is everything you need in a grocery store. Browse their variety of items and competitive prices today!
Supermarket chain with a wide selection of groceries, plus deli & bakery departments.
44 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Publix Super Market at Three Creeks
1620 Blowing Rock RdSupermarket chain with a wide selection of groceries, plus deli & bakery departments.